Opening a car door is something most people do without a second thought, yet this simple action can lead to accidents if done without awareness. Road safety experts recommend a helpful technique called the “far-hand reach.” For drivers in the U.S., this means using your right hand to open the door instead of your left. Doing so naturally turns your body and encourages you to check mirrors and blind spots before stepping out.
By reaching across your body, you remind yourself to look for cyclists, pedestrians, or approaching vehicles. This small movement helps reduce the risk of “dooring” incidents, where a car door opens into the path of someone passing by. Safety organizations, including the National Safety Council and transportation authorities across North America and Europe, promote this simple, no-cost habit as an effective way to prevent injuries.
The far-hand reach is especially useful in busy streets and parking areas where traffic moves close to parked cars. It requires no extra effort and increases your awareness of your surroundings. Just use your right hand, turn your head, check for movement, and open the door slowly. With time, it becomes a natural, mindful part of your daily driving routine.
This small habit can make a major difference in keeping everyone safer. Each time you exit your car, that quick glance around helps protect you and others on the road. The far-hand reach is more than just a driving technique — it’s a simple reminder that safety often begins with small, thoughtful actions.